“Do you think this is like going to the market to pick vegetables and radishes? That I can just change it whenever I want?” Li Weiyang glanced at him sideways, but suddenly frowned, saying, “Your wound has reopened!”
Li Minde looked down to see his white clothing faintly seeping with blood. He said unconcernedly, “It’s fine, I’ll go back and change the bandages in a bit.”
“Let me see!” Li Weiyang immediately said. But unlike before, Li Minde quickly stepped back two paces, saying, “I already told you it’s nothing—”
“Sit down! Let me see!” Li Weiyang sensed something was wrong.
Li Minde hastily said, “It’s fine, really fine! I already said it’s really nothing! It’s getting late, I need to hurry back!”
But before he could stand up, Li Weiyang heavily set her teacup down on the table: “Let me see!”
Li Minde froze, then finally obediently sat down. Li Weiyang turned her head: “Baizhi, go fetch the medicine box.” Her room was stocked with some commonly used medicine pills—mostly calming pills and such, plus some external wound medicine. Baizhi acknowledged and quickly went out to bring in the medicine box.
Li Weiyang unfastened Li Minde’s outer garment. She wasn’t particularly embarrassed—they were usually so close that she’d long grown accustomed to this state: “There’s blood, the wound really has reopened. Wait a moment, I’ll change the bandages for you.”
She carefully peeled away the bloodstained bandages bit by bit. Though she was already being very gentle, his body still shuddered violently before settling obediently still.
“Don’t move. You’re always running around, which is why it’s so hard for you to heal.”
Actually, Li Minde’s wound was healing quite quickly. An ordinary person would need to lie in bed for at least half a year to a year before being able to get up, but he had only needed two months for the wound to start scabbing over. Of course, because he never obediently listened to instructions, the wound would sometimes tear open slightly and occasionally become inflamed. But as the weather grew increasingly cool, his injury improved day by day.
Looking at the wound, Li Weiyang found the area beneath the bandages worse than she’d imagined—not just reopened but a complete bloody mess. Thinking of how this person had been chatting with her so casually just moments ago… it was truly incomprehensible… Did he even know what pain was! She gently applied medicine, and this action seemed to make Li Minde’s face grow even paler. His thin lips pressed together slightly, the corners tilting up as he watched her.
Feeling awkward under his gaze, Li Weiyang suppressed the indescribable sourness in her heart, steadied herself, and efficiently treated his wound. Only after she’d finished re-bandaging did she realize: Li Minde was no longer the little boy from years past. Just looking at his lean yet powerful physique made her understand the difference between them. Sighing inwardly, she still wished he could be like before, so they wouldn’t need to avoid impropriety.
“Does it still hurt?”
“It doesn’t hurt… really doesn’t hurt.” Li Minde only blinked his pale amber eyes that curved into crescents, his lips holding a smile, his gaze blazing. He spoke so earnestly and matter-of-factly that there was no trace of lying or deception.
Perhaps it was because his features were truly too beautiful, or perhaps she was too exhausted, causing her to feel somewhat dazed. Li Weiyang was momentarily stunned.
“Miss, this servant will dispose of the bandages first.” Baizhi said softly, quietly withdrawing.
These words were like a spell. Li Weiyang’s expression sharpened as she came back to her senses. She sighed: “With such a beautiful face, no wonder Jiang Yuelan hates me.”
But Li Minde showed a wronged expression, pressing her hand. His clear eyes grew even more burning hot as he pressed his hand to his heart, his tone three parts gentle and seven parts tender, his eyes full of warmth: “Do you dislike my face?”
His voice was low and hoarse, carrying a trace of hurt.
Li Weiyang was startled. When had he become so fragile? Always showing this injured look in front of her—clearly taking advantage of her soft heart. She rarely softened, and even less so toward men, but Li Minde was somewhat different. Fine, he had risked his life to save her, so being a little soft-hearted sometimes wasn’t too excessive… probably.
Li Weiyang thought this way, completely unaware that some people liked to advance ten steps when you retreat one step. Ever since falling ill, Li Minde had figured out exactly where Li Weiyang’s weak spots were. With the young woman before him, being angry at her, shouting at her, challenging her—none of it worked. Instead, a soft attitude, an injured attitude, a playful attitude were more likely to succeed. This could be considered fortune gained through misfortune. Li Minde’s eyes closed, his thick black lashes making his cheeks appear even paler. Thinking this while lowering the hand holding hers, his star-bright eyes looked directly at her as he said earnestly: “Or—are you angry with me? Don’t worry, I absolutely won’t let that old hag get close to me.”
Who would be angry about that? Li Weiyang didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. Besides, Jiang Yuelan was only a few years older than herself—calling her an old hag was going too far. However, Jiang Yuelan’s jealous hatred toward her had completely exceeded her expectations. Who would have thought that Jiang Yuelan, as an aunt-in-law, would actually develop feelings for Li Minde? It was simply unbelievable.
Li Weiyang glanced at Li Minde and sighed again. All troubles caused by beauty.
The next morning, Li Weiyang went to Hexiang Court to pay her respects. Before reaching the door, she could already hear waves of laughter from inside. The maids also wore joyful expressions, saying, “Third Miss.”
Li Weiyang nodded slightly. The maid lifted the curtain and she quickly walked in, only smiling: “Grandmother hasn’t been this happy in quite some time.”
Inside the room, Jiang Yuelan, Li Changxiao, and even the Second Madam and Li Changru were all present, each wearing different expressions. Seeing Li Weiyang enter, the Old Madam smiled broadly: “Come quickly, there’s good news!”
Good news? What good news could the Li family possibly have? Li Weiyang’s gaze swept over everyone before finally settling on Jiang Yuelan. Sure enough, she saw Jiang Yuelan smiling at her, the curve of her lips blooming like a flower, carrying three parts of unconcealed smugness as she said: “Look at what the Old Madam is saying—it’s just a small matter.”
“Ah, you’re bearing children for our Li family, how can that be a small matter?!” The Old Madam’s face rarely showed such a pleasant expression. Since the Jiang family’s troubles, Jiang Yuelan’s position had been somewhat awkward, and the Old Madam wasn’t as warm to her as before. Her current expression could only be described as very satisfied.
Li Changxiao said: “Third Sister, actually last night Mother had severe abdominal pain. We quickly called a physician, only to discover she’s pregnant—already two months along!”
Jiang Yuelan was pregnant? Li Weiyang’s smile froze slightly, but quickly expanded, becoming completely natural: “Congratulations Mother, congratulations Grandmother!”
The Old Madam beamed: “Yes, this is wonderful news. However, if there’s abdominal pain, you must be very careful and absolutely cannot have any mishaps.”
Jiang Yuelan’s hand unconsciously moved to her lower abdomen as she smiled: “Old Madam needn’t worry. The physician said I’m just somewhat weak in constitution, and since it’s my first pregnancy, there’s some faint abdominal pain. It’s actually nothing serious, you needn’t be anxious.”
The Second Madam’s face showed an uncontrollable sarcastic smile, her gaze slightly challenging as she said: “Since you’re pregnant, you should be more careful—mustn’t bump into anything!”
The Old Madam’s face darkened as she stared at the Second Madam: “What kind of talk is that! Heaven will protect us—the Li family will surely have another son!” She then ignored the Second Madam’s unpleasant expression and said to Jiang Yuelan: “Since you’re pregnant with your first child, this definitely requires attention. The people in your courtyard must be carefully selected—only when everything is meticulous and proper can I feel at ease!”
Jiang Yuelan’s rosy cheeks showed three parts shyness as she said: “Yes, this daughter-in-law will definitely give you a healthy grandson!”
The Second Madam truly couldn’t bear it. She had been hoping that Li Xiaoran would remain without heirs, so her own son could stand out. But now not only was there Li Minzhi, that illegitimate child, but even Jiang Yuelan was pregnant. If she gave birth to a son, the Old Madam would have even less regard for their second branch. Thinking of her own dull-witted son, her heart grew increasingly worried. She couldn’t help saying: “The child is only two months along—how can you tell if it’s male or female? If you ask me, Sister-in-law, you seem destined to bear daughters!”
The Second Madam’s stupidity lay in her complete failure to hide her resentment toward Jiang Yuelan. Just think—she was nearly forty years old yet had to call an eighteen or nineteen-year-old woman “Sister-in-law.” It infuriated her. If Jiang Yuelan had no particular abilities, that would be one thing, but she could coax Li Xiaoran into complete compliance, and even her typically critical mother-in-law praised her highly. By comparison, it made herself look even more of an eyesore.
The Old Madam slammed her teacup heavily on the table, nearly shouting at her in anger, but at the critical moment, she held back. Arguing with such a foolish woman at this time would simply be losing face.
Jiang Yuelan smiled slightly: “Younger Sister-in-law speaks truly. I’m young, so even if this pregnancy is a daughter, there will always be sons in the future. I won’t trouble you to worry about it. Speaking of which, I truly envy you—one son and one daughter, such blessed fortune. I hear Second Brother has three illegitimate sons in his post. I wonder when we can meet them—if they return, Younger Sister-in-law, you’ll be even busier.”
Half a month ago, the Second Madam had just learned that her husband had long since fathered three illegitimate sons during his years at his post, but had kept it hidden from her, fearing she would come make a scene. Now that the children had grown up, he’d finally sent word to inform her and requested the Old Madam register these three children in the family records. Normally the Old Madam wouldn’t approve of such improper matters, but considering that the second daughter-in-law was indeed the type to make unreasonable scenes, the second son’s concerns weren’t without merit—this was also for the protection of the illegitimate children, so she nodded in agreement. For this very reason, the Second Madam was being especially harsh today, as she harbored resentment toward the Old Madam as well. Now, with Jiang Yuelan’s simple few words, the Second Madam trembled with rage, ready to explode at any moment.
Li Weiyang glanced at her second sister Li Changru, who had been considering what pattern to embroider on her dowry. Only now did she snap to attention. Seeing her mother about to cause trouble, she quickly handed over a bowl of tea, nudging the Second Madam’s elbow to signal her to calm down.
The Old Madam snorted coldly and stopped paying attention to the Second Madam. She turned to look at everyone, her tone gentle as spring breeze: “Seeing our family about to become lively, I’m truly happy! Right now, the most important thing is Yuelan’s pregnancy. You must take good care of yourself and absolutely cannot be careless. Everyone else must also stay alert!”
This “everyone else” referred to people like the Second Madam. Jiang Yuelan smiled slightly and bowed in acknowledgment.
Li Weiyang maintained a gentle smile throughout, as if unaware of what this child meant for Jiang Yuelan. Only after everyone had left did the Old Madam ask her to stay behind alone.
“Nanny Luo, take the maids outside.”
The room quickly fell silent. The Old Madam looked at Li Weiyang and said flatly: “Weiyang, I hope you understand my intentions.”
Li Weiyang smiled: “Weiyang understands.”
The Old Madam took a red date and slowly ate it, as if savoring it carefully: “I know you’re a clever child. Of my three sons, the second isn’t my biological child, your third uncle died young, leaving only your father… Yet he’s already over forty now. Among his children, aside from your useless elder brother, there’s only Minzhi. He’s adorable and clever, and I like him very much, but he’s not legitimate-born after all. More importantly, Seventh Concubine’s status is truly unspeakable—she’s criticized throughout the entire capital, implicating both you and Minzhi. Originally I wanted to find two noble concubines for your father to bear children, and if they had sons, they would be raised by Yuelan. But now that she’s pregnant herself, this is the best outcome!”
Li Weiyang smiled and passed over the pastry box: “We all understand the Old Madam’s good intentions. Whether Mother gives birth to a boy or girl, they’ll be the Li family’s descendants. Minzhi will also have a playmate—nothing could be better.”
The Old Madam sighed: “Naturally so. However, when Yuelan had no children of her own, she wouldn’t do anything to Minzhi. But once she has her own child, everything will be different. You must be careful yourself. Remember: you must not harbor intentions to harm others, but you must maintain vigilance against others.”
Li Minfeng had already lost the Li family inheritance rights. As the legitimate wife of this household, if Jiang Yuelan bore a legitimate son, he would naturally inherit the family business. But given how Li Xiaoran doted on Li Minzhi—even exceeding his former affection for Li Minfeng—who knew who would ultimately inherit. After all, there had been cases of overly favored illegitimate sons seizing legitimate sons’ inheritance, so legitimate wives in this dynasty always suppressed illegitimate sons. If Jiang Yuelan merely guarded against Li Minzhi, that would be fine, but what if she decided to take action?
While Old Madam Li anticipated Jiang Yuelan bearing a grandson, she also hoped Li Weiyang could protect Li Minzhi. Given her position, still being able to consider Li Minzhi showed considerable care. Li Weiyang smiled slightly: “Granddaughter understands.”
Emerging from the room, Mozhu whispered: “Miss, Madam is pregnant.”
“Mm, news travels fast.” Li Weiyang smiled wryly. It seemed Jiang Yuelan’s pregnancy was a major event in the maids’ eyes too, making everyone highly alert.
“Miss, why aren’t you at all concerned?!” Mozhu complained. “Now that Madam has her own child, she’ll be even more wary of Fourth Young Master!”
Li Weiyang naturally knew this. In Jiang Yuelan’s eyes, Li Minzhi had probably already become a stumbling block. But often there was no need to display emotions on one’s face, so she smiled slightly: “Don’t think too much. We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.”
From when Jiang Yuelan announced her pregnancy, as the weather gradually turned cold, her stomach kept having problems—either catching cold or experiencing fetal distress. Physicians were called countless times. Li Xiaoran flew into rages every few days, scolding those around her for failing to properly care for Madam, turning the previously peaceful Li household into chaos. Everyone began walking on eggshells, fearing this happy event would turn into misfortune.
Li Weiyang held a hand warmer, leaning back in her chair, her voice very mild: “Oh, that courtyard is causing trouble again?”
“Yes, Miss,” Zhao Yue calmly reported. “First, a maid in Madam’s courtyard broke a teacup. Madam immediately cried out about stomach pain. The Master happened to see this and said the maid had frightened the fetus, insisting she receive thirty strikes and be expelled.”
“That maid—”
“Was one of ours.” Zhao Yue said softly. “This month, Madam has expelled nearly all our people.”
Li Weiyang’s expression remained calm, though her eyes held little amusement. Naturally she had people in Jiang Yuelan’s courtyard—merely to ensure Minzhi’s safety, keeping an extra eye out. But clearly, Jiang Yuelan had systematically eliminated them. Her picking out those with thorns wasn’t surprising—merely punishing a few servants couldn’t reveal any suspicious signs to outsiders.
“Is that all?” Li Weiyang said thoughtfully.
“Nothing else particularly special. Madam makes a fuss several times daily—if not complaining of headaches, then feeling feverish. Quite troublesome, dragging physicians there several times a day.” Zhao Yue said with distaste.
Li Weiyang nodded, then asked casually: “The one examining her pulse—is it our family’s regular physician?”
“About that—this servant has already investigated. The physician’s surname is He, but he’s not our Li family’s regular physician. Madam said he was the one her maiden family always used, most familiar with her physical condition and more suitable than other physicians. Only then did Master specially invite him to treat her.”
Hearing this, Li Weiyang smiled slightly: “Have you verified his background?”
Zhao Yue raised her head slightly: “Yes, Physician He was indeed used by the Jiang family for many years. His medical skills are well-reputed, so Master had no doubts and directly invited him.”
But Li Weiyang said slowly: “Have someone keep close watch on this Physician He.”
Why would she need to watch a physician when watching Madam would suffice? Hearing this, Baizhi couldn’t help but wonder: “Does Miss suspect something?”
A flash of cold light passed through Li Weiyang’s eyes: “I had just warned Jiang Yuelan that the Old Madam wanted to take noble concubines for Father, and immediately she became pregnant. Don’t you think that’s too coincidental?”
Baizhi thought carefully for a moment—it was indeed so. But the pregnancy pulse was diagnosed by three physicians in consultation, which couldn’t be faked. Even if it were fake, in ten months she’d need to produce a son. The Li household’s gates were heavily guarded—no matter how capable Jiang Yuelan was, she couldn’t smuggle in a child from outside. She absolutely wouldn’t have such courage. If so, the pregnancy should be genuine.
Seeing her expression, Li Weiyang knew what she was thinking and said softly: “It’s not that I’m overly suspicious, but it’s simply too coincidental.”
That evening, someone came to report that after paying respects to Old Madam Li, on her way back to her quarters, Jiang Yuelan had fallen, scraping her arm. Li Xiaoran rushed over, and only after carefully examining her and finding nothing seriously wrong did he relax. Learning of this, the Jiang family proposed inviting a feng shui master to see if there were any conflicting energies. Such things were common enough, so Li Xiaoran agreed, and thus this Half-Immortal Zhao came to their door.
Because the current Emperor was a devout Taoist, every household liked to curry favor with the sage’s preferences, having Taoist priests come examine everything, making quite a mess of things. Li Weiyang greatly disliked such people, but she didn’t oppose them either. After all, they were just making a living. As long as they didn’t provoke her, she let it be.
After Daoist Zhao arrived, the Li family first entertained him with good wine and food. Having eaten and drunk his fill, he patted his belly: “Minister Li, you invited me here for your wife’s pregnancy, correct?”
The Old Madam said in surprise: “How did the Daoist Master know?”
Daoist Zhao smiled: “When passing by your residence, I saw purple qi coming from the east above your estate—a most auspicious sign! This must be a star of literary brilliance descending to earth, choosing your family to be born into. Such an occurrence is rare in a thousand years—how could I be mistaken?”
Li Xiaoran was a civil official, naturally placing great value on his son’s talents. This child was already a legitimate son, and before even being born was already proclaimed a star of literary brilliance by the Daoist—even knowing there was exaggeration involved, he was still very pleased, quickly saying: “Is this truly so?”
Daoist Zhao laughed heartily: “Naturally so! I never speak falsely!”
Along with his joy, Li Xiaoran grew somewhat anxious: “But my wife’s pregnancy has been unstable all along. No matter how many physicians examine her, it’s been to no avail, which is why I wanted to invite the Daoist Master to help investigate what the cause might be. Has something been offended?”
Daoist Zhao nodded: “Then let’s divine it!”
At Li Xiaoran’s agreement, he wrote the question on yellow paper and handed it to Daoist Zhao, who would consult the spirits and record their response based on the question. Daoist Zhao took it without looking, lightly flicked his fingers, and the paper suddenly burst into flames, turning to ash in an instant.
“I have already sent your question to the Heavenly Emperor!” Daoist Zhao’s expression grew serious. “An answer will come shortly!” As he spoke, everyone saw the brush resting quietly on the sand table suddenly leap up without warning, moving like a dragon and snake across the sand. Everyone’s eyes fixed on the sand table, revealing expressions of disbelief.
“Third Sister, this truly is divine power!” Li Changxiao whispered in Li Weiyang’s ear.
Li Weiyang smiled slightly: “Daoist Zhao is a renowned half-immortal, so naturally he has divine powers.” Of course, compared to the Red Daoist Zhou Dashou in the palace, he fell far short. These minor tricks were merely street charlatan sleight of hand—Li Weiyang didn’t take them seriously. However, she was very curious what Jiang Yuelan wanted by inviting such a person. If she wanted to use some conflicting energy excuse to drive her away, she was too foolish. Li Weiyang believed that in the current Li household, absolutely no one would dare do such a thing.
Soon, elegant vertical characters appeared line by line on the sand table. Daoist Zhao looked extremely excited, actually kneeling to kowtow and give thanks repeatedly, leaving others baffled—they didn’t understand what was written on the sand table.
Turning around, Daoist Zhao loudly asked: “Minister Li, dare I ask if anyone has died in this residence?”
Any large aristocratic family—which hadn’t had deaths? Not just one or two, but dozens could be found. Not to mention all those concubines who had died one by one at the First Madam’s hands back then—those were all wronged ghosts. With his question, everyone’s expressions became quite strange.
“This—naturally there have been.” After pondering a moment, Li Xiaoran said directly.
“Then that’s it. The yin energy is too heavy, greatly hindering this star of literary brilliance’s yang energy. If this continues, the star of literary brilliance may seek another place for reincarnation.” Daoist Zhao said extremely seriously and earnestly. Seeing his expression, even though Li Weiyang knew he was spouting nonsense, others couldn’t help but believe.
Everything was like this—better to believe it exists than to believe it doesn’t!
Li Xiaoran nodded: “Then according to the Daoist Master, what should we do? Should we move Madam out of the residence?”
Daoist Zhao thought for a moment: “No, let me calculate carefully.” His fingers rapidly rotated, muttering incantations as if calculating something. Soon he said, “There’s a solution—just find someone with a heavy horoscope weight to suppress it!”
“Heavy horoscope weight?” Li Xiaoran paused, then his gaze held some doubt. “Then I’ll write down the horoscopes of everyone in the family for the Daoist Master to examine carefully.”
“No, servants aren’t needed—must find nobility.” Daoist Zhao supplemented. Li Xiaoran ordered it done, and soon all the family heads’ horoscopes were written on cards and handed to Daoist Zhao. After receiving them, he examined them carefully for a good half hour before saying deliberately: “The Old Madam’s horoscope is 5 taels 4 qian, fitting the saying ‘This fate is generous and pure, raising talented children brings merit, abundant food and clothing naturally stable, truly a blessed person in the mortal world’—what an excellent horoscope!”
Li Xiaoran quickly said: “Then is it—”
Daoist Zhao shook his head. “Not suitable, not suitable! Still not heavy enough. Oh… Minister Li, your horoscope is 6 taels 2 qian, fitting ‘This life’s blessings are endless, studies will surely bring glory to family, purple robes and golden belts for ministers, wealth and honor all achievable’! Mm, also a good horoscope, but still not heavy enough.”
The Second Madam grew anxious: “What about me and my daughter?” She didn’t care about Jiang Yuelan, but seeing this old Daoist spoke with authority, she wanted to know her family’s fortunes.
Daoist Zhao said: “Second Madam, your horoscope is 3 taels 1 qian, Second Miss’s horoscope is 4 taels 2 qian—neither particularly heavy.”
Everyone’s expressions grew grave. Daoist Zhao calculated carefully again: “Fourth Miss’s horoscope is only 3 taels 4 qian—not suitable, not suitable, too light!” Then he suddenly saw Li Weiyang’s horoscope, his eyes brightening: “Third Miss—well, her horoscope is exceedingly rare in this world!”
Li Weiyang’s gaze regarded him coldly as she smiled faintly: “I wonder what the Daoist Master means by ‘exceedingly rare’?”
“To be frank with Miss, your horoscope weighs a full 7 taels!” Actually, Daoist Zhao understated it by 2 taels. According to Li Weiyang’s horoscope, it was precisely 7 taels 2 qian, fitting: “This fate format is rare in the world, ten generations of accumulated virtue produced this person, purple star from heaven illuminates fate, ruling all people in joyful peace.” But such a horoscope could only belong to an Emperor or Empress. Yet before him was merely a Minister’s daughter. Could she have an Empress’s destiny? No, that wasn’t right. She should have had an Empress’s destiny originally, but later for some reason, this young lady’s horoscope became affected by baleful and killing energies, her future shrouded in fog with nothing visible. According to this calculation, that Empress’s destiny was likely lost—but Daoist Zhao absolutely dared not speak these words.
In truth, Zhao Buping couldn’t be considered a complete charlatan fraud. He did possess some divine powers. His skills differed from Zhou Dashou, who excelled at celestial phenomena and alchemy—he specialized in bone weighing, able to calculate people’s futures based on their horoscopes. Of course, heavier horoscopes weren’t absolutely better, lighter ones could also be quite good, but generally speaking, heavy horoscopes received better predictions than light ones. Thus Li Weiyang’s horoscope weighing 7 taels 2 qian was extremely rare in this world. Yet why was her future shrouded in a layer of bloody mist? Could it be due to excessive killing? Daoist Zhao grew increasingly puzzled. Having no choice, he could only understate Li Weiyang’s horoscope weight by 2 taels, but even so, others found it extremely shocking.
The Second Madam exclaimed in surprise: “What? A girl born in February has a 7 tael horoscope?! How is that possible!”
Daoist Zhao smiled: “That’s exactly right. Being born in February already carries baleful energy, plus such a heavy horoscope weight—perfect combination, absolutely won’t be invaded by evil entities.”
“The Daoist Master’s meaning is—” Li Xiaoran frowned.
Daoist Zhao smiled: “The courtyard where Madam lives has too much yin energy, while Third Miss’s courtyard, which she’s occupied for two or three years, is the cleanest—”
Li Weiyang smiled slightly: “Oh, the Daoist Master means for me to give up my courtyard to Mother?”
Seeing Li Weiyang’s pond-still eyes, Daoist Zhao felt somewhat intimidated and quickly said: “Not necessary, not necessary. As long as Third Miss is willing to allocate one room for Madam, letting her stay near you to absorb yang energy while nourishing the fetus would be sufficient.”
Hearing this, Li Weiyang revealed a smile that wasn’t quite a smile.
Baizhi said carefully: “Please forgive this servant’s interruption, but Miss’s courtyard isn’t spacious to begin with—I fear it would inconvenience Madam.”
“No, let’s not disturb Weiyang! I’ll be careful myself!” Jiang Yuelan, who had been observing from the sidelines, suddenly spoke. Though pregnant, her figure remained delicate, her face carrying a faint trace of melancholy. Usually she liked to maintain the full bearing of a legitimate wife, but at this moment her show of weakness made her even more pitiable, as if afraid of being disliked by Li Weiyang.
Li Xiaoran said: “How can that work? Weiyang’s horoscope is the only one that can save you! Do you want to watch helplessly as the child cannot be born safely?” In his heart, he didn’t necessarily truly believe in horoscope theory. Most importantly, he worried other Li family members didn’t want this child born. The primary suspect among these others was Li Weiyang.
She had her own younger brother, naturally hoping Li Minzhi could inherit the family business in the future. But with an additional legitimate son, Minzhi would lose that qualification. Thus Li Weiyang definitely hoped this child wouldn’t be born. In Li Xiaoran’s eyes, Li Weiyang was a girl with formidable methods—who knew what vicious schemes she might employ. If so, better to have Jiang Yuelan live right under her nose. If anything happened to Jiang Yuelan, Li Weiyang would be the first unable to escape suspicion. Word spreading that she had plotted against her legitimate mother would be a capital offense—no matter how bold Li Weiyang was, she couldn’t possibly do such a thing. Of course, among Li Xiaoran’s concerns, the other wives and concubines in the household all harbored jealousy and resentment. To suppress them, living at Li Weiyang’s place was best. Even to protect her own reputation, Li Weiyang would have to protect Jiang Yuelan.
Li Weiyang looked at her father, a cold smile crossing her lips. This old man still didn’t understand her. She didn’t care at all about his Li family’s property. As for Minzhi, she truly cared deeply. But the money and wealth in her hands were enough for this child to live two lifetimes without running out. Why would she covet others’? Moreover, if Minzhi had ability in the future, her most thorough planning would be wasted; if he lacked ability, fighting for more would be futile. Unfortunately, Li Xiaoran didn’t understand this principle.
“Weiyang, consider it Father begging you—it’s just allocating one room. Don’t be so petty.” Li Xiaoran actually spoke in a humble, pleading tone.
The Old Madam looked at Li Weiyang and frowned: “Weiyang, I’ll send people to watch every day. Presumably nothing will happen.”
So even the Old Madam hoped to use her horoscope to suppress ghosts and spirits. Li Weiyang smiled: “Since both the Old Madam and Father have said so, what more can Weiyang say? Only caring for Mother is a heavy responsibility—Weiyang fears she cannot bear it alone. If anything goes wrong—”
Li Xiaoran said: “I’ll specially assign people to guard her. Don’t worry, it won’t take much of your effort.”
Li Weiyang smiled slightly: “In that case, I’ll have people quickly prepare the east side room with the best sunlight. That’s the most spacious.”
Only then did Li Xiaoran nod with satisfaction: “I entrust everything to you.” Having resolved the matter satisfactorily, Li Xiaoran waved his hand. The steward withdrew a silver pouch from his breast and respectfully presented it to Daoist Zhao: “This small sum to replenish sir’s health. After our young master is born, there will be generous gifts.”
“Too kind, really…” Daoist Zhao reached out to take it, but seeing Li Weiyang’s smile that wasn’t quite a smile, he couldn’t help shivering and said awkwardly: “Then I’ll take my leave.”
That afternoon, Old Madam Li ordered Nanny Luo to personally lead the maids in preparing Jiang Yuelan’s room. Li Weiyang kept Baizhi and Moyu watching the courtyard while she brought Zhao Yue toward Tan Shi’s courtyard.
Zhao Yue said: “Miss, that Daoist Zhao truly seemed to possess divine powers!”
Li Weiyang smiled: “Divine powers? What divine powers? Just pretending to be possessed by spirits, using his sleeve to block our view while manipulating transparent silk threads with both hands…”
“Ah, then why didn’t Miss expose him?” Zhao Yue asked in surprise.
“When one scheme fails, she’ll devise another. Why should I expose it? She’s guarding against me harming her child, and I’m guarding against her harming Minzhi—just mutual vigilance. Since she wants to move in, she’ll succeed by any means necessary.”
“But Miss, this servant feels Madam doesn’t simply want to move in.” Having been by Li Weiyang’s side for so long, Zhao Yue had seen many cunning faces. She always felt something wasn’t right about Jiang Yuelan, though she couldn’t say what.
But Li Weiyang only smiled slightly: “No need to concern ourselves with her.” As she spoke, she had already entered Tan Shi’s courtyard.
Tan Shi was reciting sutras in the small Buddhist hall. When Li Weiyang entered, she was kneeling on the ground with hands clasped, praying devoutly. She was beseeching heaven to protect her children, praying they would be safe and happy.
Li Weiyang watched Tan Shi’s pious appearance, then looked up at the seated bodhisattva—benevolent brows and kind eyes, gazing down upon all beings. Unfortunately, all things were never truly equal. She couldn’t help but smile. To her, neither heaven nor spirits were useful. She believed in no one—she believed in herself. Every path was one she walked herself. In this world, people could only ever rely on themselves.
Tan Shi continued her devout prayers, her words drifting with the incense filling the room. Turning around, she saw Li Weiyang standing in the doorway and quickly got up: “Weiyang, why have you come?”
Li Weiyang said slowly: “The First Madam is moving to my courtyard, so Nanny Luo is leading people in preparations. Finding it too noisy, I came out for a walk.”
Tan Shi’s brows immediately furrowed: “Why would she move to your place? That’s not proper!”
Li Weiyang smiled lightly: “Perhaps the feng shui in my courtyard is good?”
“You child, why have you learned to be so evasive with me too!” Tan Shi couldn’t help chiding.
“They merely said my horoscope weight can suppress things—it’s nothing serious.” Li Weiyang said dismissively.
“No! How can they do this! This is simply—” Tan Shi was an honest person after all. She truly couldn’t find other words, only feeling this was extremely improper. Though she thought the new Madam was a good person, why must she move to live with Weiyang? This gave her a bad premonition.
“Weiyang, you won’t be able to care for Madam properly. Since becoming pregnant, she’s complained the food is too bland one moment, then has fetal distress every few days the next. If she’s at your place and something happens, won’t you have to bear responsibility? No, absolutely not!” Though simple-minded, Tan Shi felt this matter was very improper, fearing her daughter would be implicated.
Li Weiyang smiled slightly: “Mother, don’t worry. This matter was decided by the Old Madam. Since she’s spoken, can I refuse? Besides, though the First Madam will live in my courtyard, she has special people caring for her—I won’t need to do anything.”
Li Weiyang tolerated the unreasonable demands Old Madam Li and Li Xiaoran made, but she absolutely wouldn’t let herself fall into potential crisis. Protecting herself was her first consideration. Moreover, the more Jiang Yuelan jumped around, the faster she’d die in Li Weiyang’s view. But no matter how Li Weiyang reassured her, Tan Shi appeared deeply worried. Li Weiyang said no more, carefully inspecting the guards in this small courtyard, instructing Tan Shi’s attendants to carefully examine everything Fourth Young Master ate and touched before leaving.
That evening, Jiang Yuelan had already moved into the east room. Moving with her were four personal maids and two experienced nannies, making the entire courtyard suddenly much livelier. Plus Nanny Rong kept constantly criticizing the pillows, bedding, tea, and room—from start to finish finding nothing satisfactory, wanting to replace everything, making the courtyard even more chaotic and restless.
Zhao Yue stood guard in the corridor, vigilantly watching the movement across the way. Nanny Rong glanced at her coldly and slammed the door shut with a bang.
Inside the room, Mozhu gently extinguished the candles, complaining softly: “Their side is really too bright—lighting so many candles that Miss can’t even sleep.”
Li Weiyang lay gently on the bed without saying a word.
Mozhu was on night duty tonight. Disturbed by the noise outside, her temper flared. She couldn’t help lowering her voice: “Miss, Madam is being so arrogant—why not give her a lesson!”
Mozhu meant to teach the other side a lesson, though naturally not to the point of causing miscarriage. But in the darkness, Li Weiyang said coldly: “Doing anything might leave traces. If we’re careless and give someone leverage, the loss would outweigh the gain. After all, Jiang Yuelan is living here now. If anything happens to her, others will suspect me.” This was also Li Xiaoran’s true intention. What a selfish, self-serving old man. Li Weiyang laughed coldly.
She wondered what Jiang Yuelan really wanted to do. Like Li Xiaoran, using herself for protection? Or fearing she might harm her? No, Li Weiyang felt it wasn’t that simple. Or perhaps she wanted to create trouble for both sides, but would a pregnant woman—especially when this child related to her future position in the Li family—risk such an important child?
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